WHY DID YOU BECOME A PROSECUTOR?

While in law school I participated in a mock trial and it was at that time that my interest was sparked in being a trial attorney.  Growing up listening to the stories from my grandfather, who was an Oregon State Trooper, was another source of inspiration for me becoming a prosecutor. I gained a huge respect for law enforcement through him.

 

WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR WORK?

The most rewarding part of my job is the opportunity it gives me to give back to the community I grew up in.  I also enjoy working collaboratively with other public safety partners to ensure that our community remains a safe, enjoyable place to live.

 

WHAT IS THE HARDEST PART OF YOUR WORK?

The most difficult part of my work is learning about the horrific crimes being committed in our community and against members of our community.

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WHAT DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT YOU AND THE WORK YOU DO?

I would like for people to understand how passionate and serious my office is about the work we do to keep our community safe and a great place to live.

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​WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE THE COMMUNITY TO BETTER UNDERSTAND ABOUT THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM?

It is important for the community to understand that our ability to hold individuals accountable through charging and sentencing is limited by factors outside of the control of the District Attorney’s Office. For example, limitations can be set by the legislature and reviewing courts. Another important point to understand is that the criminal justice system encompasses many moving parts, all of which need to be balanced. These parts include the victim, defendant, law enforcement, the community and the courts. All of these parts do not always have the same idea of a good outcome, nor the same idea of how a case should progress or resolve.

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DO YOU HAVE VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES IN WHICH YOU PARTICIPATE?

I participate in many volunteer activities within our community, to include the following boards: Treasurer for the Guardian Care Center, Prison Advisory Committee (Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution), Vice Chair Local Public Safety Coordinating Council, President Pendleton Baseball Club.  In addition, I am active in coaching little league baseball, travel baseball and grid kid football.

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OF THE WORK OF YOUR OFFICE, WHAT MAKES YOU THE MOST PROUD?

I am proud of the hard work and countless hours they put in for the office.  We have been able to create a family that makes it enjoyable to come to work each and every day to serve the people of Umatilla County.

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Diversion Programs and/or Alternative Sentencing Programs and Community Engagement Programs. 

• Drug Court